Va-va-voom

This is now a typical night in Bricktown, thanks to Dollhouse Lounge & Burlesque, 210 E. Sheridan.

“The downtown area is the most thriving and growing area of Oklahoma City. It is a location convenient for tourists and locals,” said Marilyn Artus, Dollhouse public relations consultant, about choosing a Bricktown site for the nonsmoking club. “We hope to be a place where you can bring someone from out of town to enjoy live entertainment and be the go-to location when you want to take a date for a unique and fun night out.”

Last Friday marked the opening of Dollhouse, a 1920s-themed burlesque club. Styled after the age of flappers and speakeasies, the cocktail menu and decor follow suit.

“It’s something different. You can get dressed up and have dinner and watch a show. Everything is designed after [the ’20s] era: stage, lights and dancers,” said Joel Buffington, Dollhouse consultant.

On the menu — aside from the actual show — is a selection of light items from French Bull Catering.

Traditional burlesque shows, complete with jazz quartet, run from the early part of the night until 11 p.m., when a DJ takes over to turn things into a modern cabaret showcasing less-traditional burlesque dancers.

The posh hub isn’t just for men, however. Artus said burlesque has a rich history fraught with expressionism in the realm of sexuality and women’s liberation.

“In the past, [burlesque] was often something men went to go see with other men,” she said. “But now the crowds are equal men and women. [The performers] see [burlesque] as a way they can express and enjoy their sexuality in a positive way. Dollhouse is going to present dance in a positive, elegant, sexy and whimsical celebration of this art form.”